Golf is a game with far too many antiquated and austere rules that need changing.

The one the bothers me the most and should be so simple to change is the way professional golf handles players’ scorecards after rounds. If a player has signed his or her scorecard and a mistake has been identified on it, but after it’s been signed, that player is penalized.

The most famous incident of all time in this case took place at the 1968 Masters when Roberto De Vicenzo signed for a 4 on the par-4 17th hole at Augusta National, but actually had a birdie 3.

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<figcaption>A smiling Robert De Vincenzo holds the Claret Jug after winning the 1967 British Open, but he will always <br>be remembered for his scorecard error that cost him a shot at a playoff in the 1968 Masters. <span class="credit">AP</span></figcaption>

It’s customary in tournament golf that players keep each other’s scorecards. 

Golf is a game with far too many antiquated and austere rules that need changing. The scorecard rule might be the worst.{ai:summary}<p>Professional golf's rules regarding scorecard errors are outdated and need reform. Players face penalties for mistakes on their signed scorecards, which can significantly impact their performance. The infamous case of Roberto De Vicenzo at the 1968 Masters highlights the need for change in this area.</p><p>Currently, players are responsible for each other's scorecards, adding to the complexity and potential for error. Simplifying these rules could enhance the game and reduce unfair penalties. #sports</p>

Golf needs to fix overly punitive scorecard error penalty

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